Does Subway’s Pretzel Come with Cheese? A Deep Dive
Subway’s pretzel sandwich is a popular choice, but does it automatically include cheese? The short answer is no, the original Subway pretzel is just the pretzel bread itself. Cheese is an optional addition and must be requested (and paid for) as an extra.
A Brief History of Subway’s Pretzel Bread
Subway has introduced pretzel bread several times throughout its history, often as a limited-time offering or as a component of a specific promotional sandwich. The distinctive flavor and texture of the pretzel bread – salty, chewy on the outside, and soft on the inside – has always been a major draw. It adds a unique twist to Subway’s standard sandwich offerings.
Why the Confusion About Cheese?
The confusion arises because some promotional pretzel-based sandwiches do include cheese as a core component. For example, a past offering called the “German Pretzel Melt” prominently featured cheese. This association can lead customers to assume that all Subway pretzels come with cheese, which isn’t the case.
The Standard Ordering Process
When ordering a sandwich with pretzel bread at Subway, the standard ordering process is crucial to understand:
- Specify the bread: Begin by requesting the pretzel bread for your sandwich.
- Choose your fillings: Select your preferred meats, vegetables, and sauces.
- Add cheese (optional): Explicitly request cheese if you desire it. Otherwise, your sandwich will be assembled without it.
- Confirm your order: Double-check your order at the end to ensure accuracy, especially regarding the presence or absence of cheese.
Benefits of Opting for Cheese (or Not)
Adding cheese offers several benefits:
- Enhanced Flavor: Cheese adds richness and creaminess that complements the salty pretzel.
- Increased Satisfaction: The addition of cheese can make the sandwich more filling and satisfying.
- Customization: You can choose from various cheese options to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.
Conversely, opting out of cheese can be beneficial for:
- Dietary Considerations: Lower calorie and fat intake for health-conscious individuals.
- Lactose Intolerance: Avoiding discomfort for those who are lactose intolerant.
- Simpler Flavor: Enjoying the pure pretzel flavor without the competing taste of cheese.
Popular Cheese Pairings with Pretzel Bread
If you decide to add cheese, some pairings work particularly well with Subway’s pretzel bread:
- Cheddar: A classic choice that provides a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Monterey Jack: Offers a milder, slightly sweet flavor.
- Provolone: A versatile cheese that melts well and has a subtle flavor.
- Swiss: Provides a nutty, slightly sweet taste.
Comparing Pretzel Sandwich Options with and without Cheese
The table below illustrates a simple comparison:
| Feature | Pretzel Sandwich Without Cheese | Pretzel Sandwich With Cheese |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Salty, chewy, soft | Salty, chewy, creamy, soft |
| Calorie Count | Lower | Higher |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Dietary Concerns | Lower fat, lactose-free option | Higher fat, lactose content |
Common Mistakes When Ordering
- Assuming cheese is included: This is the most common mistake. Always specify if you want cheese.
- Not specifying cheese type: Subway offers various cheese options. Be clear about your preference.
- Forgetting other toppings: Don’t get so focused on the cheese question that you forget other important elements like vegetables and sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Subway’s Pretzel
1. Is Subway’s pretzel bread always available?
No, Subway’s pretzel bread is not a permanent menu item. It is often offered as a limited-time promotion or as part of a specific sandwich build. Availability can vary by location.
2. How much extra does it cost to add cheese to a pretzel sandwich?
The price of adding cheese varies by location and the type of cheese chosen, but it’s usually between $0.50 and $1.00 extra. Check the menu board at your local Subway for accurate pricing.
3. What kind of salt is used on Subway’s pretzel bread?
Subway typically uses a coarse pretzel salt, which contributes to the bread’s signature flavor and texture.
4. Is Subway’s pretzel bread vegan?
Generally, Subway’s standard pretzel bread recipe contains dairy and is therefore not vegan. Always check with the specific location for ingredient information, as recipes can sometimes vary.
5. Can I order a footlong pretzel sandwich?
Yes, if the pretzel bread is available, you can order a footlong just like any other Subway bread option.
6. Does the pretzel bread contain any allergens?
Yes, Subway’s pretzel bread typically contains wheat (gluten) and may contain traces of other allergens due to shared equipment. Check Subway’s allergen information for details.
7. Can I get a breakfast sandwich on pretzel bread?
If available, you can generally request a breakfast sandwich on pretzel bread. This would depend on the specific location and the availability of both pretzel bread and breakfast items at the time of your order.
8. How does the nutritional content of pretzel bread compare to other Subway breads?
Pretzel bread usually has a higher sodium content than other breads due to the pretzel salt. Calorie and carbohydrate content can vary. Check Subway’s nutritional information for specifics.
9. Does Subway offer a gluten-free pretzel bread option?
Currently, Subway does not offer a gluten-free pretzel bread option.
10. Can I order a half-sandwich on pretzel bread?
Yes, you can order a 6-inch sandwich on pretzel bread, which is considered a half-sandwich in Subway terminology. If the option exists, you can order a sandwich with “double meat” on a 6-inch (half) pretzel bread sandwich.
11. How can I find out if my local Subway is offering pretzel bread?
The best way to check availability is to call your local Subway restaurant directly or check their online menu. Promotions and availability can vary significantly.
12. What sauces pair best with a pretzel and cheese sandwich at Subway?
Many sauces complement the pretzel and cheese combination, but popular choices include: Honey Mustard, Ranch, Chipotle Southwest, and Sweet Onion. Experiment to find your favorite combination!